Hyundai Motor Malaysia has offered an exciting first glimpse of the all-new Hyundai Santa Fe, a bold and boxy SUV that stands out with its commanding presence and premium design touches. The rugged silhouette, complemented by a wide stance and high hood, marks a significant shift in styling for Hyundai’s flagship D/E-segment SUV. Featuring bold fenders, a distinctive H-light LED signature, a dark chrome-finished grille, and a hidden rear wiper, the new Santa Fe looks every bit the adventurer it promises to be.

But this SUV isn’t just about striking looks. Practicality is clearly at the heart of the design too. One of the standout features is the wider tailgate opening, which makes loading and unloading cargo easier than ever, perfect for families or road-trippers who pack heavy.

Under the hood, the new Santa Fe comes in three distinct variants for the Malaysian market. The Prime and Prestige trims are both hybrids, each powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. These variants produce a respectable 235PS at 5,500 rpm and 367Nm of torque from just 1,000 to 4,000 rpm—more than enough for smooth city driving and confident highway cruising.

Meanwhile, the top-tier Calligraphy variant brings more power and a more engaging drive with its 2.5-litre turbocharged engine delivering 281PS at 5,800 rpm and a robust 422Nm of torque between 1,700 and 4,000 rpm. Mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and equipped with all-wheel drive, this 6-seater model is geared towards those who crave performance and refinement in equal measure.

Dimensionally, the Santa Fe stretches 4,830 mm in length and 1,900 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,815 mm, giving it an assertive road presence and a spacious interior layout. Height varies slightly between variants, with the Prime and Prestige standing at 1,770 mm and the Calligraphy slightly taller at 1,780 mm. This means the all-new Santa Fe is slightly smaller than a Ford Everest Wildtrak.

Although Hyundai has yet to unveil the interior of the Malaysian-spec models, hints from global versions offer plenty to look forward to. Features like a panoramic curved display, a dual wireless charging system, and even a UV-C sterilisation tray have been showcased internationally. A C-type USB charging port (capable of up to 27W output) is also part of the setup, suggesting a strong emphasis on convenience and tech-forward design.

Hyundai Motor Malaysia is expected to reveal more details, including interior features, safety technologies, and pricing, at the official launch next week. The event will also coincide with the introduction of the new Tucson and updated STARIA models, making it a major milestone for Hyundai’s growing presence in the country.

For now, the all-new Santa Fe teases a promising blend of style, practicality, and performance. And if what’s under the surface is anything like the sharp new exterior, Malaysian SUV buyers are in for something special.